Author: Design Marketing

IS THIS YOUR PERFECT RETIREMENT LIFESTYLE?

Posted on by Design Marketing

It’s a marketing director’s dream to have customers so thrilled with a product that they can’t help but spruik it to other people.

For Janine Spencer, the marketing director for retirement community Tallowood Medowie, that’s the happy situation. She says her job is made a whole lot easier because of the enthusiasm of the people who call it home.

Built on a 23-hectare site set in a beautiful natural landscape within the Port Stephens region, the luxury resort-style development has a way of turning its residents into devotees who want to spread the word about the lifestyle there.

“I think the residents do most of the marketing for us,” Ms Spencer said. “They have really become advocates for us – more than 50 per cent of the sales now at Tallowood are from referrals.”

Tallowood Medowie was the first retirement living development created by Vivacity Property, the innovative company that acquired the project four years ago and set about building a community that delivered the kind of independent retirement lifestyle its conversations with local people told them was needed.

The result is a stunning, over-55s lifestyle community with an abundance of green space surrounded by bushland but within walking distance to shops, cafes and local restaurants, and other amenities, with a golf course just a short drive away. There are an array of different-sized high quality brick and part-brick premium-finished homes, built by a trusted local builder.

At its heart is the award-winning lakeside Country Club featuring high ceilings and open fire, with a bar, commercial kitchen and dining areas, as well as indoor and outdoor pools and a sauna, plus a gym with the latest technology in weight-training equipment for senior exercise and rehabilitation from Hur Australia. There are also light-filled rooms that residents use for everything from yoga to painting classes.

“We wanted to create a luxury resort style of living that was in nature, that offered all the health and wellness benefits of being amongst green open spaces but that also had that accessibility to all the amenities people needed,” said Ms Spencer.

Retaining the existing tall trees and bushland on the site was paramount to Vivacity in its plan for the development. And rather than building as many homes as possible, it’s restricted them to just 11 hectares of the 23 hectare site.

“We wanted to preserve the beautiful tall trees, plant even more trees and sustain the fauna to contribute ecologically to the Port Stephens and Newcastle region,” Ms Spencer said.

“Our approach is to build around rather than bulldoze. For us it’s always about green spaces. Rather than having the maximum amount of homes on a site it’s about the quality of life we can provide.

“It’s very important to us to create a community lifestyle that provides comfort and peace of mind for our residents and contributes to their mental health and their physical health.”

For the residents, a major drawcard of the lifestyle of Tallowood Medowie is the strong and supportive community that they quickly become a part of. Making sure new residents feel welcomed and instantly at home is also a priority for the Vivacity team.

Throughout the period when a new home is being built, the team have several meetings on site with the new owners for updates on the progress and to meet some of the residents. When they move in, the sales and customer service team are there with a wonderful welcome hamper and then the executive team joins in at a party in their honour at the Country Club.

“By the time they move in they know their neighbours and they know other residents so straight away they feel welcome and comfortable in their new home,” said Ms Spencer.

Tallowood resident Jeannette Popewell said the decision to buy her home in the supportive and friendly community helped her get back to living a full and healthy life after her husband died.

“I wasn’t prepared for what happens after that happens to you and I was becoming more and more lonely and depressed,” she said.

“It was by accident I found Tallowood but I’m very glad that I did – it’s changed my life and I’ve been very happy every since. Even my health has improved. It’s just a lovely lifestyle. All the stress has gone out of my life.”

Saying goodbye to a three acre property that needed lots of maintenance was the reason Teresa Lilley and David Alwood began hunting for the right retirement community to downsize to. They scoured lots of over-50s villages before discovering Tallowood.

“Nothing compared to the quality of homes and facilities at Tallowood” said Ms Lilley. “The first visit left us awestruck with its impeccable surroundings and welcoming atmosphere. The sense of community here is unparalleled.

“We’d been yearning for a change of pace and a downsized lifestyle so the decision to move into Tallowood was an easy one for us,” said Mr Alwood. “It has everything you need to embrace and enjoy life – there’s an abundance of opportunities to stay busy or unwind, whatever your preference. And you’ll always have someone looking out for you.”

Come along and explore your perfect blend of community, connectivity and comfort in Port Stephens at Tallowood Medowie’s Spring Open Day on Saturday 25 November from 10am to 2pm. It’s the perfect chance to find out more and to step inside its newest display home – The Marigold. Enjoy music on the Green with ‘the Dudes’, a BBQ lunch and tours. Plus be one of the first four to secure your home for just $1,500 before 31 Dec 2023 and receive a $750 Harvey Norman gift voucher*. See vivacityproperty.com.au/open-day/

THREE-INGREDIENT HOMEMADE ICE CREAM

Posted on by Design Marketing

A fun, super easy recipe that is totally customisable to your tastes. Why not try it this Summer?

Ingredients

• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 can sweetened condensed milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• A mix-in of your choice, like chocolate syrup, crushed Oreos, finely chopped strawberries, sprinkles, etc.

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, whip the cream until stiff peaks form. You can use an electric beater to make this process easier.
2. Add chilled and sweetened condensed milk and vanilla; stir slowly until just combined.
3. Stir in mix-ins of your choice. Get creative! You can separate your base into multiple containers to try more flavours.
4. Seal into Tupperware containers with lids, and freeze at least 4 hours before enjoying.

SPRING INTO CONNECTIONS: THE HEARTBEAT OF WELL-BEING

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Retirement is a phase of life where you’ve earned the right to revel in relaxation, embrace new experiences, and truly thrive. At Vivacity Property, we wholeheartedly believe that the cornerstone of an exceptional retirement is a vibrant, connected community. Our mission is to curate boutique communities that embody this ethos, offering a harmonious, secure, and interactive lifestyle.

In the tapestry of our communities, every thread is considered, from the initial spark of an idea to the final construction touches. Our goal is to shape an environment that fosters unity and contentment. What sets us apart is our dedication to customise your retirement experience where your choices are not just acknowledged but celebrated.

Our communities aren’t just about comfortable homes; they’re about forging connections. Imagine a place where friendly neighbours become cherished friends, always ready to lend a hand or share a cup of tea. Our bustling activity calendar ensures there’s always something happening, whether it’s a lively card game with friends or a rejuvenating yoga session. Physical activities like yoga promote flexibility and strength, benefiting the body. Moreover, group activities stimulate mental faculties, enhancing cognitive abilities and memory. Beyond the physical and mental benefits, these activities provide a structured opportunity for social interaction, thereby reducing stress and anxiety while fostering a sense of purpose. Our communities bring joy, laughter, and a sense of togetherness into resident’s lives.

When choosing Vivacity Property, you’re not just selecting a place to live; you’re embracing modern resort living with real-life connections. It’s an abundant lifestyle of opportunities that will empower you to thrive, grow, and make the most of this exciting phase of life. We foster an environment where friendly neighbours naturally evolve into cherished friends. This sense of companionship and camaraderie serves as a cornerstone of emotional well-being. Engaging in meaningful conversations, sharing experiences, and simply having someone to lean on can reduce feelings of loneliness, boost self-esteem, and contribute to a happier, more fulfilled life – this is what we endeavour to achieve at Vivacity Property.

Come and experience retirement reimagined with Vivacity Property for yourself at our Tallowood Medowie Open Day on November 25. Enjoy free music, tours, sausage sizzle and step inside The Marigold and experience a display home like never before. Your dream community is on the horizon, and we invite you to be part of it. Your vibrant retirement lifestyle awaits.

RETIRING AT A VIVACITY COMMUNITY

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Retirement marks the dawn of a new chapter in your life, a time to revel in well-deserved relaxation, savour the joys of life, and become part of a lively, welcoming community. At Vivacity Property, we’re passionate about crafting retirement communities that don’t just offer homes but whole lifestyles tailored to your desires and requirements.

Imagine waking up in your new home, nestled within a vibrant community, surrounded by lush, green landscapes and an array of top-tier amenities. Vivacity Property communities are thoughtfully designed to elevate your retirement experience to extraordinary heights.

With communities in Port Stephens, Tahmoor, and the upcoming Chain Bay, Vivacity Property carefully selects locations that offer you numerous benefits. Not only are our communities well-connected to local amenities and infrastructure, but they’re also close to nature. This proximity to natural landscapes greatly enhances your overall well-being. These serene surroundings support an active and balanced lifestyle, bringing a sense of harmony and tranquility to your daily life.

Start your day with an invigorating dip in an indoor pool, followed by a serene session in the sauna. Craving some activity? The gym is at your disposal, or you can join friends for a spirited game of bowls on our impeccably maintained green. Later, treat yourself to a cinematic delight in our movie theatre, dive into a good book from our library, or simply unwind in our cosy lounge bar. A diverse range of meticulously designed facilities, all aimed at creating a lifestyle that’s as vibrant or tranquil as you wish it to be.

When we founded Vivacity Property, we harboured a vision: to create retirement communities where residents thrive. Your contentment tops our list of priorities, and we’ve seamlessly integrated this ethos into every facet of our communities.

One of the many advantages of choosing Vivacity Property is our land lease model, a game-changer in retirement living. Here’s what sets it apart:

• Capital Gains: When you decide to sell your home, you keep 100% of the capital gains. It’s an investment in your future.
• Financial Freedom: Forget about the complexities of stamp duty, council rates, deferred fees, management fees, entry or exit charges. Your hard-earned savings remain securely yours.
• Pet-Friendly: We warmly welcome your furry companions, understanding the profound bonds shared with these four-legged family members.
• Ready-to-Move-In Homes: Your new home is thoughtfully crafted with premium inclusions, awaiting your personal touches to transform it into your masterpiece.
• Security and Community: Our gated communities offer impeccable security, as well as having the added benefit of neighbours who look out for each other.
• Activities Abound: Our bustling activity calendar ensures there’s always something to do, whether it’s a lively card game with friends or a serene yoga session.
• Comfort and Enjoyment: Our homes are designed for both comfort and delight, allowing you to focus on what truly matters to you.
• Luxurious 5-star Clubhouses: Our multi-million-dollar clubhouses, mere steps from your door, set the stage for your new lifestyle.

Living in a Vivacity Property community signifies owning your home, relishing financial freedom, and cherishing the security of a close-knit, gated community. You’re poised to embrace a lifestyle tailored to your preferences, whether relaxation, activity, or a harmonious blend of both.

It’s time to redefine your retirement and embrace a life characterised by comfort, fulfillment, and community. Don’t postpone living your dream retirement any longer. Connect with us today, and let your journey commence. Your vibrant retirement lifestyle awaits.

BAKED TOFU AND CABBAGE WITH PEANUT GINGER SAUCE

Posted on by Design Marketing

Here’s a delicious recipe that will make you love eating healthy meals. The baked tofu and cabbage are perfect with the peanut ginger sauce. So good, you won’t even realise how healthy it is!

INGREDIENT LIST

• 175 grams Tofu (extra firm, cubed)
• 1 cup Frozen Edamame
• 2 tbsps Tamari (divided)
• 4 cups Purple Cabbage (cut into 1-inch strips)
• 1 tbsp All Natural Peanut Butter
• 1 tsp Ginger (fresh, grated)
• 1 1/2 tsps Lime Juice
• 1 1/2 tbsps Water
• 1 cup Cauliflower Rice or you can try my homemade Healthy & Easy Cauliflower Rice Recipe

PREPARATION

• Add the tofu and edamame to a mixing bowl with 3/4 of the tamari and toss to coat. Let the tofu marinate while preheating the oven.
• Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• Arrange the cabbage on one side of the baking sheet and the marinated tofu and edamame on the other. Bake for 30 minutes stirring halfway through.
• Meanwhile, in a small mixing bowl combine the peanut butter, ginger, lime juice, and the remaining tamari. Stir in the water to thin the sauce.
• To serve, divide the cauliflower rice between plates. Top with the baked cabbage and tofu and drizzle with the sauce. Enjoy!

NOTES

LEFTOVERS: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to four days.
NUT-FREE: Use sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter.
MORE FLAVOUR: Add garlic, honey, sesame oil, or red pepper flakes to the sauce.
NO TAMARI: Use coconut aminos instead.
MORE CARBS: Serve with rice or quinoa instead of cauliflower rice.

So, there you have it – this baked tofu and purple cabbage is an easy way to make a delicious and healthy meal. And the peanut ginger sauce gives the dish just the right amount of flavoUr and zing.

GREY NOMADS: THE THRILL OF THE ROAD

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Today’s high-tech caravans offer the best choice for the growing number of grey nomads. Grey nomads are lucky people, although lucky by choice. Usually of retirement age, they’ve decided to sell up and move on to a life on the open road. Downsizing their lives, making themselves mobile, and enjoying liberated freedom is what it’s all about for thousands of Australians.

And perhaps the perfect way to spend weeks or months on the go is with a high-tech caravan. No longer offering just a two-up, two-down cramped life of bunk-beds, today’s rigs can be self-contained human ecosystems. Not only that, but many parks and camping grounds offer modern amenities set amid attractive settings that mean you don’t have to forego most of your mod cons.

One of the main advantages of caravans for grey nomads is the plethora of choice. When it comes to choosing a rig, the sky really is the limit. Depending on your needs and the amount of time you intend to be away, you can opt for anything from a simple escape vehicle to a literal home away from home. Some even include a washing machine, fully equipped kitchen, and WiFi capabilities. The provision of such modern amenities means that you can extend your travelling time almost indefinitely.

After all, what’s not to like? There is an undeniable sense of freedom to be gained from “de-stuffing” your life and then pretty much going where the fancy takes you. But it’s not just about the literal freedom that such a life affords. It’s about living life to the fullest: seeing parts of the country you may never have seen before, forging new and lasting friendships and enjoying shared hospitality, and even providing a way for couples to re-bond.

When not on the road, you’ll most likely end up in one of many powered campgrounds, which offer easy and relatively cheap access to showers, laundry services, cooking facilities and more. Most importantly, it is here that you’ll pick up tips from other experienced travellers on where to go and how to get there, plus making the most out of your mobile lifestyle.

And there’s no shortage of things to do and see. An online search for caravan trails in Australia yields heaps of results all very beguiling to the intrepid traveller. After all, the country boasts some of the most varied and spectacular scenery in the world. Imagine a trip through the deserted outback and onwards towards the Nullarbor Plain if you’re seeking remote solitude under the stars.

Of course, if this is a little too extreme for you, you could instead traverse the Legendary Pacific Coast Touring Route in New South Wales, which takes you from Sydney to Brisbane via picture-perfect coastlines, the Hunter Valley wineries, and even a rainforest golf course.

Another popular route is the South Australian Loop: a must for food and wine fans as it includes the Barossa and Clare Valleys. It is also perfect for those seeking to commune with nature—at the Fleurieu Peninsula, you can swim, surf and snorkel before going on to meet face to face with penguins in Penneshaw. Your final destination? The green and pleasant spaces of Adelaide. A leisurely trip through the countryside that ends in the leafy capital: who could want for more?

BLUE MACKEREL AND FERMENTED CHILLI SPAGHETTI

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Blue mackerel and fermented chilli spaghetti… did we get your attention?

INGREDIENTS
• 400g spaghetti
• 1/4 cup (60ml) extra virgin olive oil
• 6 medium blue mackerel fillets, (skin on), pin-boned
• 1/2 cup (125ml) white wine
• 1 cup (250ml) fish stock
• 1/2 bunch flat-leaf parsley, leaves picked, roughly chopped
• 60g unsalted butter
• Lemon wedges, to serve

FERMENTED CHILLI PASTE (MAKES APPROX. 2 CUPS – 500ML. SUBSTITUTE GOOD-QUALITY, STORE-BOUGHT CHILLI PASTE)
• 500g long red chillies, roughly chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, chopped
• 3 tsp sea salt flakes

METHOD

1. For the fermented chilli, place all the ingredients in a food processor and whiz, scraping down the sides occasionally, until a rough paste. Transfer chilli mixture to a sterilised jar with a lid and stand at room temperature (about 22°C-23°C) for 1 week. Fermented chilli can be stored in the fridge for up to one year.

2. Bring a large saucepan three-quarters full of salted water to the boil over high heat. Cook spaghetti according to packet instructions.

3. Meanwhile, heat a large non-stick, heavy-based, deep frypan with oil over high heat. Season mackerel all over then sear, skin-side down, for 1-2 minutes or until the meat just starts to cook.

4.Add 3 large tbs of chilli paste then stir frequently but gently to break up the fish slightly and prevent paste from sticking.

5. Add wine, scraping the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon, then add stock. When pasta is ready, add straight from the saucepan (you will need pasta water to keep the dish from drying out).

6. Reduce heat to medium and simmer gently for 2-3 minutes, then stir in the parsley. Season to taste. Add butter, reduce heat to low and toss the pan until butter melts and the sauce is a coating consistency. Use extra pasta water to adjust the sauce if needed.

7. Season to taste and serve with lemon wedges.

STRATFORD GARDENS: A NEW COMMUNITY READY TO BLOOM

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At Vivacity Property, we take immense pride in unveiling our latest gem, Stratford Gardens – a distinguished haven for those above 55 seeking an unparalleled retirement living experience. As the first land lease community in Tahmoor, we’ve meticulously crafted this exquisite community to offer the epitome of resort-style living while encompassing the beauty of the countryside and the convenience of strategic location.

A community that has been crafted to blend the environment with the historic charm of Stratford House and it’s enchanting allure of established gardens. Nestled within the vibrant heart of Tahmoor, our community seamlessly weaves convenience into your lifestyle, with the proximity of a bustling Town Centre, a wealth of local services, and easy access to rail transport. Vivacity Property welcomes you to a life where every comfort and convenience is catered to, elevating your retirement to an exquisite level.

We believe that retirement living should be an indulgence, and Stratford Gardens embodies this philosophy. Amidst the tranquility of Tahmoor, just a short drive from Picton, we’ve curated a community that resonates with retirees and the luxury country lifestyle they crave. Tahmoor’s Town Centre stands as a testament to convenience, hosting essential services including Australia Post, Woolworths supermarket, and specialty outlets. And if retail therapy beckons, Macarthur Square Shopping Centre in Campbelltown and Narellan Shopping Centre are easily accessible, while proximity to Camden Hospital and Campbelltown Hospital offers peace of mind for your health needs.

Sculpted to be more than just a retirement community, Stratford Gardens is a vibrant tapestry of experiences. Imagine awakening to a safe and socially active environment, wrapped in the serenity of the countryside and expansive open spaces. Stratford House’s meticulously landscaped gardens provide an oasis for relaxation, while our diverse home designs cater to individual needs and preferences, featuring a spectrum of sizes, finishes, and even single or double garages.

Living at Stratford Gardens unlocks an array of possibilities: a 5-star Country Club invites you to relish dining, explore the library, share stories at the bar, or immerse yourself in games and cinema rooms. Our indoor swimming pool, well-equipped gym, and the thrill of bowls on the green ensure every day is brimming with activity. For the explorer in you, the Southern Highlands beckon, while the pristine beaches of Wollongong await your discovery. Local national parks invite you to rejuvenating hikes, and the allure of Mermaid Pool and Tahmoor Canyon await your exploration.

In addition to curating this bespoke retirement community, at Vivacity Property our consultants take the utmost care in helping you navigate the intricacies of a land lease retirement living. We’re here to guide you at every step, from personal meetings to online consultations, and on-site tours that bring the community to life. Our dedicated team ensures you find a home design that perfectly aligns with your preferences, lifestyle, and budget.

Stratford Gardens is more than just a retirement community; it’s a canvas for creating cherished memories and an opportunity to re-imagine retirement living. To embrace a lifestyle that’s both serene and well-connected, enquire about Stratford Gardens today. Your luxury country lifestyle awaits your arrival.

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